Kalino eventually walked in from the rain. Most of the Eagles had already dispersed. The rain was not letting up.
Melissa ran up and hugged the slacker. "If you need anything, say so."
Kalino said nothing, slumping down at a table in the corner. Vance followed and took a seat beside him.
"Hey partner," Vance said, "how you holding up?"
Kalino shrugged.
"Listen," Vance said, "you can't be mad at yourself; Frannie didn't want to stay. Now she can go home."
"I thought if I won I..." Kalino said. "...I didn't tell her."
Vance scratched his mustache. "Well. I don't know how you'd tell someone that. Sometimes you have to keep people in the dark for their own good. Just remember, you did the right thing."
Kalino said nothing.
Eventually, Vance coughed, wished Kalino goodnight and left. Kalino laid his head against the table…
/
In the hall Pascal was tiptoeing around a corner, where he bumped into Xidorn. The two fell to the floor, Xidorn gripping his hand tightly.
Pascal forced a smile. "Oh Xidorn. Good to see you buddy. How'd the elimination ceremony go?"
"I'm still here," Xidorn replied, shoving his hand into his pocket. "Sorry to disappoint."
Pascal pushed his way past the straight shooter. "Oh well; there's always next time."
"Good flashdrive hunting!" Xidorn shouted back before heading down the hall. He looked down at his fist and smirked to himself.
/
Xidorn entered the usual commons room, where Seraphina was watching an old movie. The psychic jumped on her feet and sighed in relief at the sight of Xidorn.
"Thank god," Seraphina said, embracing her boyfriend.
"I'm glad to see you too," Xidorn replied. "But I told you it wouldn't be me."
"Who was it then?" Seraphina asked.
Xidorn sighed. "Frannie. Apparently she was homesick, so we voted for her. I'd have told you sooner, but I only found out right before the elimination ceremony."
"I guess I didn't need my plan," Seraphina muttered.
"I have something I want to...plan?"
Xidorn separated and stared at Seraphina, who blushed.
"I decided I wasn't going to sit back and cause your elimination," Seraphina admitted. "So I went looking for the immunity flash drive, and while I didn't find it...I did see some Eagles leave Pascal's room, probably his roommate's friends."
"So?" Xidorn asked.
"Well...it gave me an idea," Seraphina admitted. "The whole reason you were on the chopping block was for 'fraternizing with the enemy'. If someone was doing the same thing, on a much bigger scale, then the target would be off of you."
"That rumor going on," Xidorn stated, his eyes growing wide.
Seraphina nodded. "I made up the rumor about an interteam alliance. We were shocked to see you voted off Hayden, so I tied that into it. I told the other Fireworks, knowing it would spread. I knew no one would suspect you, you're too honest."
"So you told this huge lie?" Xidorn asked.
"Yeah," Seraphina replied. "Why, what's the big deal? It was a game move."
"If your plan would have worked," Xidorn said. "It could have sent home someone completely innocent."
"Someone has to go home and I'd rather it not be you," Seraphina said. "Especially for a stupid reason."
"What's the difference between this and any lie Pascal told?" Xidorn asked.
"I did it to save someone I care about," Seraphina shouted. "I did it to protect you. Not to get ahead or some petty reason."
"So you're willing to let someone else take the fall?" Xidorn replied.
"Your team was willing to turn on you for dating me," Seraphina countered. "People will use any reason they can to vote someone off and save themselves!"
"So that makes it right for you do the same thing?" Xidorn asked.
Seraphina sighed. "I guess not...but we can't do the right thing all the time. I'm not going to be an idiot and take the higher ground. I mean is taking the high ground worth giving up two million dollars? Is it worth letting some ass have a better chance? Sometimes you just have to swallow your pride and do what you have to do to make it through another day."
"I'd rather take the high ground than lie and manipulate others," Xidorn stated. "Even if it is two million dollars."
"So I should have just sat back and let you go home because of me?" Seraphina asked. "I should have done nothing?"
"I'm fine," Xidorn stated. "We didn't need your plan because Frannie was homesick. Even if she wasn't, I have friends. I wouldn't be voted out for it."
"I know you want to believe that but that's not what I heard!" Seraphina replied. "Riley's roommates with Weston; he said your name had been brought up."
Xidorn's expression didn't change. "You didn't trust me."
He sat down next to the psychic, but turned away from her. They sat there, not moving, not speaking, not looking at each other for a few minutes.
"This is for you."
Xidorn opened his hand to reveal a red flash drive.
"Where did you-"
"I saw it sticking out of a potted plant," Xidorn explained. "The one near your room. Take it."
Seraphina grabbed it. "I...thank you."
A few more minutes passed. Xidorn stood up and left. Seraphina watched him leave, then turned away.
/
Outside of another common room, Griswold stood waiting outside the door.
"I've just got to be honest," Griswold whispered to himself. "We just need to slow it down."
Griswold started to knock on the door, only for Lita to fling it open. "Oh Gris, I thought I heard you whispering to yourself out here."
"Lita there's something I have to tell you," Griswold stated.
Lita tugged on her scarf. "Yes Griswold?"
"Uh...squeak! Squeak!"
"What?" Lita asked.
"I uh...like your hair," Griswold mumbled.
"Oh thanks," Lita laughed. "Your pompadour looks good as usual. So, I thought tonight we could watch something special."
Lita pulled out a DVD titled…
"The Notebook?" Griswold asked.
Lita snuggled his shoulder. "Yeah. Its my favorite movie actually! You know it's a movie that couples watch, cause its so romantic. And we're a couple so-"
"I've seen it," Griswold stated. "Me and my sisters usually watch it with our mama. She bawls like crazy at it."
Lita frowned. "I'll start it."
/
In the secret observation room, Rhonda, Jenny and Toby were holding a meeting.
"Now that's the advertisements handled for the next few episodes," Rhonda finished. "Onto other news; are you two aware of that vulture?"
The camera panned up to reveal a vulture circling the co-hosts.
"Oh yeah," Jenny replied, "It's been stalking us ever since then the first challenge. I'm pretty sure it thinks Toby is going to keel over soon, since he basically looks like a corpse."
"Your outside is a direct reflection of your inside," Toby stated.
"I've named her Elaine," Jenny stated.
Rhonda shrugged, and went on with business.
/
Early that next morning, before the sun had even come out, Melissa left her room. Using her tiptoes, she made her way downstairs. Turning behind her, she tripped and fell down the stairs in a clatter. She landed on top of Aiden.
"Gee wilkers Melissa," Aiden stated. "You alright?"
"I am fine," Melissa replied. "Are you alright snookums?"
Melissa and Aiden stood up and dusted the other off.
"Just dandy," Aiden replied. "What are you doing up at this hour?"
"I just wanted to do some baking," Melissa admitted. "Why are you up?"
Aiden shifted his eyes back and forth. "Have you heard those rumors about an interteam alliance?"
Melissa shook her head.
"Rumor is they were responsible for Hayden's elimination," Aiden replied. "I've been looking for clues on who they are."
"I wouldn't pay any mind to any rumors," Melissa said. "Sweetie, Hayden just didn't mesh well with everyone. That's why he's gone."
Aiden shook his head. "That can't be it. There has to be something else."
Melissa sighed. "Aiden, I...I was thinking we-"
"-I'm sorry Melissa, I've got to go find more clues," Aiden interrupted. 'I'll see you later."
The patriot marched off.
Melissa trudged towards the kitchen. Her eyes widened as she saw Kalino asleep on the table. She snuck into the kitchen and took the secret passage to her room.
She came back with a blanket and draped it over the slacker.
/
In Ness' room, Ness and Lita were going through their morning routine, as Seraphina was sprawled out in bed, face buried in a pillow.
"How'd your date go last night Lita?" Ness asked.
Lita grimaced. "Great."
Ness started brushing her hair. "Its weird, it feels like its been almost a year since we've been on this show, huh?"
"Amen," Lita replied. "How long has it been?"
Ness shrugged. "We started at the end of May, right?"
"Ooh!" Lita exclaimed. "Let's look at my new calendar and see if we can tell.
Ness' eyes grew wide, and she snapped her hairbrush in half.
Lita strutted over towards the side of the room. "Any excuse to look at my calendar of food and hunky gu-"
Lita froze and frowned. Her calendar was tossed on the ground. The knockout picked it up, and her jaw dropped. "What in the world?"
"I didn't rip out June's calendar page!" Ness screamed.
"No one said you did sweetie," Lita replied. "Look at who's on my July cover."
Ness giggled as she saw the cover; Ignacio sporting American flag briefs and grilling burgers.
"I can't believe Iggy is in your calendar," Ness teased. "Should we tell him? Or do you think he'll get too embarrassed."
"I have to tell him," Lita stated, "because he is overcooking those patties. That is a waste of meat products!"
"I feel like you only bought the calendar for the food," Ness joked. "The hot guys were just a bonus."
"Girl, stop calling me out," Lita laughed.
"The truth is I did actually got rid of Lita's June calendar page," Ness admitted. "My birthday is coming up and I don't want the girls to know. My birthdays tend to be pretty bad...worse than usual actually. I have to celebrate it at home, but I'd like not to here. So if everyone thinks we've skipped ahead to next month, we can avoid it entirely."
In the hotel's lobby, Rhonda, Toby and Jenny were escorting the elderly lady from before inside.
"Thank you for allowing me to tour the Pentagram Raina," the old lady stated.
"No problem Ms…"
"Holmes," the old lady replied. "Ms. Holmes. Its beautiful architecture; you know this hotel was closed off to the public for years after the murder and subsequent treasure hunters."
"You mentioned a treasure before," Rhonda said, "What is this treasure?"
"No one knows for certain," Ms. Holmes replied, "the owner was a wealthy man and took many valuables from his victims."
"You know it's one thing to be a serial killer," Jenny said. "But a murderer and a thief? That's just rude."
"On his execution day he said his greatest treasure was still hidden in the hotel," Ms. Holmes explained. "He said it was in the hotel's 'heart he'. Whatever that means. To this day, it has never been found."
"I'm sure it won't be a plot point later," Toby stated.
"You know the owner said he designed the hotel after a pentagram to ensure he could finish his plans," Ms. Holmes continued. "Right before he was executed, he said he placed a curse on the hotel. Said the curse would allow his spirit to haunt the hotel and continue his business forever."
"He cursed it?" Rhonda asked.
"Oh yes," the old lady replied. "It's the reason his ghost haunts the place."
"What do you mean?" Rhonda asked.
"He didn't die here," the old lady stated. "He died in the electric chair. Why would his ghost be in the hotel?"
Rhonda blinked. "I uh…I never thought about that."
Jenny shook her head. "What a dummy."
"Look whose talking," Toby said.
"YOUR MOM!" Jenny shouted.
"So, could we tour the underground catacombs?" Ms. Holmes asked.
"Afraid not," Rhonda replied. "Orders from the higher-ups. But we can let you see the new Internet cafe in the hotel!"
/
In a common room, Xidorn slouched on the coach and was trying to watch some movie. Rushing in the room comes Weston, who halted to a stop and stared at the screen.
"Oh hey Weston," Xidorn said. "What's up?"
"I got lost looking for the bathroom again," Weston said.
"You know there are bathrooms in our room," Xidorn explained.
"Ohh!" Weston exclaimed. "Now if I could just find my room….are you watching a Cornelious Puckerschmidt film?"
Xidorn smiled a bit. "Yeah, it's during his weird Japanophile phase, Rise of the Wily Takunis."
"I say he's still in that phase," Weston joked. "Why are you watching it all alone?"
"To be honest," Xidorn said, "Seraphina and I got in a fight. I'm trying to process how I feel about it."
"Aw jeez," Weston sighed. "I've only recently started dating...no one, but I bet it isn't fun."
"Weston you're a well sprung of simple but deep truths," Xidorn replied.
"I get that a lot," Weston replied.
"Can I ask you something?" Xidorn questioned. "Would you have voted me out last night?"
"No way!" Weston declared. "Someone did say they were thinking of voting for you. Can't remember who though. But I like having you here. Plus, you're the first person I've met with naturally blue hair!"
Xidorn laughed. "Thanks Weston, I appreciate it."
"Do you mind if I watch this with you?" Weston asked.
Xidorn patted the couch next to him. "I was hoping you'd ask."
/
In the billiards room, Riley, Easton and Griswold were playing another game of pool.
Easton shook the rack. "So how'd it go last night Gris? Did you talk to her?"
Griswold blushed. "Well I..."
"Nope," Riley stated, shaking her head.
"I'm sorry," Griswold admitted, "I'm trying! I will soon, I just don't want to hurt her feelings."
"As long as I get invited to the wedding," Easton joked.
"Have you talked to your brother?" Riley asked.
"We're not starting that again," Easton replied. "But...how is he? He tell you anything?"
"He asked what the mac in mac and cheese was," Riley replied. "I really didn't have the answer."
"How come you don't have problems dude?" Griswold asked.
Riley lined up her cue with the ball and prepared to break. "Cause I'm awesome."
Riley rammed the ball with her cue, firing it off the table and out the secret passage. A sound like glass breaking followed.
Griswold laughed. "The awesomest."
/
The next day, Xidorn and Vance were in the library…
"Eat...them...with a f, f, fox," Vance read, from Dr. Seuss' Green Eggs and Ham. "Eat them...in a box."
"That's right!" Xidorn cheered. "Awesome job Vance."
Vance spit and tossed the book against the wall. "Aw great, I could read as well as **** preschooler!"
"Vance-"
"I feel like an idiot!" Vance shouted. "If I'm just now reading a picture book, how am I ever going to really read? How is anyone ever going to take me seriously?"
"Throwing the book isn't going to help," Xidorn retorted. "I know its tough, but you're making progress and that's what counts!"
Vance had crossed his arms and faced away.
Xidorn reached his hand out to the cowboy's shoulder, but the cowboy pulled away.
Xidorn sighed. "I think that's enough for today. Hey listen, I'm going to a movie later tonight, you want to come with us?"
Vance turned around a little bit. "Well...who are you going with?"
"Weston," Xidorn replied.
"Weston!" Vance exclaimed. "Why are you going to the movies with that polecat?"
"Because we're friends," Xidorn answered. "We enjoy a lot of the same movies and directors."
Vance pouted and sniffled. "You're my deputy though..."
"I still am," Xidorn insisted. "But I have other friends, like you and Kalino are friends."
"Why do you have to hang out with Weston though?" Vance asked.
I know you and Weston haven't always gotten along," Xidorn stated, "but I think you could! You actually have a lot in common."
"Oh yeah?" Vance asked. "Like what?"
"Well for starters you both asked me what the mac in mac and cheese is," Xidorn stated. "And you both asked me if Santa Claus visits Jewish kids."
"Psh, everyone asks those same questions," Vance replied. "doesn't mean I'm Weston's new twin."
"You're both members of the same team," Xidorn added. "You're both cool guys I like."
"That's because everyone likes me," Vance stated.
Xidorn shifted his eyes back and forth. "Honestly I-"
"I ain't doing it," Vance stated. "And that's final!"
"Come on, give him a chance," Xidorn pleaded. "Please, for me."
Xidorn held his hands together and made 'puppy dog' eyes at Vance, widening his eyes and batting them at the faux cowboy.
"The puppy dog eyes won't work on me this time," Vance stated. "No sir, you will not-"
/
Vance and Xidorn were preparing to leave for the movies. Weston tripped down the stairs, wiping out in front of the honest abe and the rodeo star.
"Ready for the newest superhero crossover Xi...ance?" Weston asked.
"It's Vance," the cowboy corrected. "With a V, like in violin or the two in W."
Weston frowned. "Xidorn, can I talk to you in private?"
The straight shooter and twin scooted by into the corner, Vance scowling at Weston.
"What is that meany pants doing here?" Weston pouted.
"I invited Vance along," Xidorn explained. "I thought you guys should get to know each other."
Weston frowned. "I think I know him pretty well. Enough to know I don't want to hang out with him."
Xidorn batted his eyes and began making a puppy dog face. "Come on, it's not too much to ask if I try to have my friends hang out, is it?"
Weston cringed and turned away. "Uhh...okay, just stop making puppy dog eyes."
Xidorn beamed. "Woo! Let's go have fun at the movies!"
Weston sniffled. "I can still feel them looking at me…"
"Me and Vance?" Weston asked. "I don't see it. That guy is kind of mean, like a bear. But not a panda bear, or a teddy bear, or a gummy bear, or a care bear. Those are the nice bears! There's no way me and him could ever-"
Xidorn, Weston and Vance exit the movie theater laughing with their arms synced together.
"That was a blast!" Weston cheered.
"You can say that again partner," Vance agreed. "And it's thanks to these two funny guys right here!"
"Right back at you buddy!" Weston stated.
"Vance is actually pretty cool," Weston admitted. "I mean I finally found someone who also wants to know what the mac in mac and cheese is! He grew up around farms too, but his had animals like horses and even ostriches! The animals on Nebraskan farms are usually just corn."
"I mean I kinda always knew Weston and I would get along," Vance bragged. "We're both thinkers, you know? I mean this guy gets it, let me tell you. He was obviously impressed by my rodeo skills. I might even let him become my backup deputy."
Xidorn crossed his arms and smirked. "What did I say? I knew they'd hit it off. Part of the reason I wanted them to hang out is I think they need to make more friends, just so they can have a bigger support system. Another thing they have in common is that they're both going through some rough times."
The following day, Cynthia walked down the hall, sharpening her knives. From around the corner, Aiden crawled on the ground and followed her.
"Operation Ghost Eagle is a go," Aiden whispered to himself. "Let's see where you're going. To meet your secret alliance?"
Cynthia stopped and shot a glance backwards.
"Eep!" Aiden squealed, hightailing it out of there. "Abort mission, abort mission!"
Cynthia turned around and continued on her way, stopping at a broom closet and sneaking inside.
"Hi Cynthia," Weston greeted. "Uh, why are we meeting in her again?"
"To keep it a secret," Cynthia replied. "I think someone is on to us."
"I'll get them off you Cynthia!" Weston stated, brushing the girl's back. Weston pulled Cynthia closer to him, then blushed as their faces were only inches apart. The two moved in closer...till Weston recoiled back.
"Ouch," Weston stated. "I think I accidentally bit my lip."
Weston motioned towards his bottom lip, showing where was blood was trickling down.
Cynthia grabbed Weston and pulled him towards her. Weston giggled as the two began making out.
/
Meanwhile the other newcomers ate in the cafeteria, enjoying the peace and quiet.
A piercing crackle was heard over the loud speaker. "Its time for the challenge newbies! Everyone on the bus in five fabulous minutes!"
/
The TDG bus departed, eventually stopping outside of glitzy, glittery hotel. The newcomers entered through the lobby, gazing at racks of fashion magazines and headless mannequins modeled in unrealistic positions.
They reached the elevator and headed towards the top floor. But instead of hotel rooms, the elevator opened up to a catwalk and judges' table.
"Welcome contestants to The Hotel de Couture," Rhonda announced. "One of the most expensive and exclusive hotels, and one of the many amazing hotels that are part of our main company's chain!"
She paused and forced a smile. "Only the most on-point fashionistas stay here. Now as you can probably tell, this place is not only a hotel but hosts many fashion shows…"
Rhonda motioned beyond her as stage lights lit up the runway.
"Which brings us to today's challenge," Rhonda said. "Our very own fashion show! Each team must design outfits and model them on this runway."
"Ain't that the berries!" Vance shouted. "They got a model on their team!"
"Didn't you guys have a circus acrobat in a high wire challenge?" Ignacio replied. "Or a track star compete in shot put? Or a Washington local in the race around Washington?"
Vance pouted his lip. "Well…"
"This is a fashion challenge," Rhonda stated. "Modeling is only a small part of it. If you're still sore about it, get over it because I'm not making special accommodations. Trust me, life isn't fair."
Rhonda took a deep breath before continuing. "You'll need to create three outfits for this challenge; swimwear, evening wear and a wedding dress. You'll need three model and at least one male and one female model. We'll then have a fashion show, where are mystery designer judges will decide the winners."
"Mystery designer judges?" Ness whispered.
"I bet it's just Jenny and Toby," Seraphina replied. "Probably wearing over-sized hats or something."
"You can use any of the materials backstage for your clothes," Rhonda stated. "If you need other materials, you each have a little spending money you can use at the fabric store down the street. See you in five hours!"
/
In a designer's room towards stage left, the Fizzled Fireworks gathered around Griswold.
"So what's fashionable Ignacio?" Griswold asked.
"I don't know," Ignacio replied.
"Wait what?" Seraphina questioned. "Why not?"
"Guys I'm adorned in the same sweatshirt everyday," Ignacio stated. "I have no knowledge of couture."
"But aren't you a model?" Easton asked.
"I model underwear, the clothes others aren't suppose to see," Ingacio replied. "Except for people who still think sagging their pants is cool. The point is I wear clothes, not design them."
"What about you Seraphina?" Griswold asked. "Your shawl is totally spiffy."
"It's from a dead relative," Seraphina replied. "Which is my extent of fashion and also shows Griswold's out."
"That's fair," Griswold replied and patted his pompadour. "I'm more known for my great hair."
"I am a celebrity," Pascal stated. "So I'd say I'm pretty high fashion."
"Is that why you were that beanie everywhere?" Seraphina asked.
"Hey my hat is super cool," Pascal said. "And it was…a gift from a friend…"
"Lita you know this stuff, right?" Seraphina asked.
Lita raised an eyebrow. "Honey I don't know nothing about clothes. I buy my stuff from on the sales bin at K-mart. Not even the Super K-mart."
"I thought you looked nice," Seraphina replied.
"Thank you sweetie," Lita said. "But the only thing I know about clothes is that fashionable clothes are expensive ones."
"Not necessarily," Riley said, "as my outfit can attest to."
Griswold nodded. "True, true. Wait a minute…Riley could design the outfits for this challenge!"
"Dude, you really think so?" Riley asked.
The other Fireworks exchanged looks. "Uhh…"
Of course bro," Griswold replied. "Your the swaggiest fashion guru I know."
"Can't argue with that," Riley replied. "Hmm, now let's see…"
As soon as Riley walked off, the remaining Fireworks huddled together.
"Are we sure this is a good idea?" Easton asked.
"Why would you doubt Riley's fashion sense?" Griswold asked.
Riley took down a mounted deer head. "Dudes, we could totally make this into a hat! Or if we have two, they could shoulder pads! Or maybe split the face and antlers…"
"I mean I like Riley's outfit," Ness said. "It's totally cool! But it's not what comes to mind when I think of high fashion. More like…little red dresses and lots of jewelry."
"I guess its not that," Griswold said. "But I have full faith that Riley will knock it out of the park for this challenge."
In the back, Riley is dancing with the deer head on.
"I guess you're the leader," Seraphina said. "And nobody else knows anything."
"Sweet!" Griswold cheered.
Riley jumped. "Don't leave me out of the team huddle. What's up?"
"Just deciding models," Seraphina lied. "We need two besides Ignacio."
"It should be Lita and Pascal," Ness spoke up. "They're really attractive like models."
"Aw sweetie, thank you," Lita replied.
"You think I'm attractive?" Pascal asked.
"I'm sure she meant anyone but you," Seraphina said. "Like that dead deer head."
Ness blushed. "I uh, I just um…I meant you attract the audience with your energy. You are a performer, so you'd do good on the catwalk."
"It is another stage," Pascal agreed.
"Ness doesn't like me right?" Pascal asked. "Psh, what I am talking about? Being with Ness is more like having a little sister. I'm sure she probably feels the same way."
"So who gets what outfit?" Ignacio asked.
"Dibs on the wedding dress!" Lita shouted.
"Swimwear is for showing off skin," Seraphina admitted. "I recommend you take it Ignacio."
"Really?" Ignacio murmured and blushed.
"You do model underwear," Easton said. "A speedo is basically underwater underwear."
"I don't think this deer head would make a good speedo," Riley said. "Maybe a squirrel…"
"I've always dreamed about trying on wedding dresses," Lita swooned. "You know, all your girlfriends giving you advice, modeling the gown, a sassy designer snapping his fingers, all the works! And then to strut down that church, have my dream guy lift my veil and tell me how much he loves me in that dress...isn't that what every girl dreams of?"
"What do I dream of?" Riley asked. "Two words; monkey, butlers. Like its a monkey in a tuxedo who will make you little sandwiches and do laundry. Isn't that what everyone dreams of?"
"Does anyone have any sewing skills?" Griswold asked.
Ness raised her hand halfway. "Not with clothes. But I know how to use a needle and stitch; I learned from some free classes at the vet's clinic...and personal experience."
"Vet classes?" Easton asked.
"Mhmm, I love animals!" Ness exclaimed. "I plan on becoming a veterinary."
Everyone stared at Ness.
"What?"
"Uhh…"
/
In a flashback, the Fizzled Fireworks walked down the street. On the side of a road, a one eyed cat limps in an alley.
"Oh no," Ness gasped, "that poor kitty is hurt. We should call a-"
"Hisss!"
The cat leapt onto Ness' face, forcing her backwards where she slipped on a banana peel and fell into a dumpster.
"Aackkkkk!"
"I think it just coughed a hairball in my mouth…"
/
In another flashback, Seraphina approached Lita in the lobby.
"I'm so excited for this trip," Seraphina said. "Where's Ness?"
"The girls' room," Lita replied.
"Ahhh!"
Ness ran screaming out of the bathroom, a piece of toilet paper stuck to her boot. Seconds later, a sewer gator crawled out after her.
"Huh," Seraphina said, "it's smaller than usual."
/
In another flashback, the Fireworks are dancing at a party in the girls' dorm.
"Easton look out!" Ness yelled.
Easton froze, along with everyone. "Huh?"
Ness bent down and picked up a caterpillar almost crushed under Easton's foot. "You almost squashed this little guy."
"Its just a caterpillar," Pascal said. "There are about ten dead ones in the window sill."
Ness blushed. "It's just he's got a whole life to look forward to. He hasn't even had a chance to be a butterfly yet. I'll be back, I'm going to let him back outside."
/
A few minutes later and the Fireworks were back to partying.
"Where on Earth is Ness?" Lita asked. "You don't think she got mugged, or kidnapped, or abducted or-"
"-We'll check," Seraphina said, opening the door. "But I'm sure she's just-"
They froze as they found Ness passed out in a pool of her own blood, the caterpillar bathing itself.
/
Ness blushed as the other Fireworks gave her questioning or concerned looks.
"Okay, I'm not the best with animals," Ness admitted. "But I can use a needle."
"We'll take it!" Griswold stated. "Get us started Riley..."
/
On the right side of the stage, the Molting Eagles discovered a similar problem...
"...None of us have any fashion sense," Aiden sighed.
"So what do we do?" Weston asked.
No one said anything, looking over at the others for a sign.
"Does anyone have any ideas?" Melissa asked. "There's no such thing has a bad idea."
"Could we buy clothes and wear those?" Weston asked.
"I think that would defeat the purpose of the challenge," Xidorn stated. "It is a designing contest. I don't think we have enough money for a good wedding dress, let alone three whole outfits."
"I've hemmed clothes before for the needy," Melissa said. "So I have a few skills with sewing. Any ideas for a design? Aiden sweetie?"
Aiden shook his head and looked down at the ground.
"This is why we need Hayden," Aiden stated. "If he was here, he'd know what to do. But its my fault he isn't."
"The magazines."
The Eagles turned to see Kalino, pulling a magazine off a shelf and flipping through it.
"This hotel is covered in fashion magazines," Kalino explained. "We can borrow some designs from them, simplify the designs for our skills, and then model it. There in fashion magazines, so they have to be fashionable."
Melissa clapped. "Brilliant idea Kalino!"
"Thanks," Kalino replied. "Melissa, you model the wedding dress, I'll model the swimsuit and for the evening wear..."
"How about Cynthia?" Melissa suggested. "I'm sure she'd look gorgeous in a evening dress."
"I second that!" Weston agreed. Melissa gave the twin a look.
Everyone else shared tried not to sweat too obviously.
Kalino forced a smile. "Mannnn, if that's what Cynthia wants, then totally! Right guys?"
The others nodded, trying to avoid eye contact.
Cynthia shrugged. "I don't care."
"Its settled then!" Vance shouted. "Lets get busier than a moth in a mitten!"
/
The teams got to work as best they could, their respective sewers trying to pass on what they know to their team members and crafting designs, eventually making some progress.
Over at the Fireworks, Lita and Ignacio were in the changing room. A metallic buzz was heard humming in the background.
Lita frowned as she looked at herself in the mirror; the dear head had been converted into a headdress. Between the antlers an American flag veil was suspended. The wedding dress was meanwhile created almost entirely of emerald like snake skin and had a long 'trail' of various feathers flowing behind it.
The metallic buzzing stopped. "So how bad is it?"
Lita twirled back and forth in the dress, almost tripping on the wooden clogs she wore. "I think my husband would leave me at the altar."
"That bad?" Ignacio asked, hidden behind a changing cover.
"There is one bright side," Lita admitted, pulling out a handful of cheese fries from her bra. "Riley made a bra with a cheese fry cup. I will never not wear it. How's yours?"
"Itchy and tight."
Lita turned around and nearly fell over again in her clogs; Ignacio walked out in a squirrel fur speedo, but more striking was that he was shaven. His facial hair was gone and his body was silky smooth. Even his hair was cut to a stylized, swept look. Ignacio looked almost identical to his modeling photos.
"Who they heck are you and what have you have done with my hairy friend," Lita teased.
Ignacio blushed. "I thought it might help if I look more like a model, maybe get some bonus points."
"Well you can certainly pull it off," Lita replied, turning back to the mirror and adjusting her headdress.
"You look great too Lita," Ignacio replied. "I wouldn't leave you at the altar."
Lita turned around, but stumbled in her clogs and fell forward. She grabbed onto the model for support, knocking right into him...with her chest.
"Phew, that was a close one," Lita exhaled.
Ignacio was turning all shades of red, as his face was plastered against Lita's...features. "I...I um...this is not okay, not that you, but I...I'm not that, its not...I got to go!"
Ignacio sprinted out of the modeling room. Lita raised an eyebrow, before shrugging and pulling out another handful of cheese fries.
/
The model dashed into the nearest room and held his face in hands. "What on earth Ignacio! Come on!"
"Iggy?"
Ignacio looked up to see Ness, tailoring a purple sequined vest. "Everything okay?"
Ignacio blushed. "Its nothing."
"You can tell me," Ness insisted. "We're teammates."
Ignacio sank to the floor. "Its...me and Lita were changing and she...she kind of smothered me in her chest."
Ness blinked. "Oh. You guys both okay?"
Ignacio shook his head. "Yes, yes we're both fine. But...I liked it."
Ness blinked. "And?"
"And Lita is with Griswold!" Ignacio shouted.
"Were you going to make a move on her?" Ness asked.
"Of course not," Ignacio replied. "Griswold and Lita are my friends."
"Then what's the problem?" Ness asked.
Ignacio buried his head into knees. "The problem is, I'm a huge hypocrite. I get so annoyed at everyone fawning and flirting with me, but I'm no better. I'm really attracted to Lita...and other girls too. But I shouldn't be! Everyone expects me to be some kind of pervert...and they're right."
Ness took a seat next to the model. "Okay, so you're attracted to people. You're also a teenager. And teenagers have hormones. Lots of hormones."
Ness blushed. "I just mean, its okay to be attracted to someone. I'm attracted to lots of people! Err...I guess I'm saying, its okay to feel things, it happens. You shouldn't be ashamed of that, its not a sin. But its what you do that matters."
Ignacio looked up and blushed. "Thanks Ness. When you explain it like that, I guess I kind of feel silly."
"Don't," Ness replied. "Its not silly at all. Now, lets go and win this challenge!"
Ignacio nodded and helped Ness back on to her feet.
/
On the right side, Melissa flipped through a wedding magazine as she sewed a white dress as carefully as she could. Looking up, she saw Aiden tiptoeing by.
"Yoohoo sugarlamb!" Melissa called.
Aiden froze and blushed. "Oh hey Melissa. How's the wedding dress coming?"
Melissa smiled. "Its been going wonderful, thank you for asking. Where have you been? I haven't seen you recently."
"I've been eavesdropping," Aiden admitted, "trying to figure out whose in that alliance."
Melissa shook her head. "Buttercup, I don't think there's any truth in that rumor. Cynthia even voted for Hayden."
Aiden raised an eyebrow. "Hmm, she could be in that secret alliance."
"Pardon me but no she's not," Melissa stated. "I know everyone seems afraid of Cynthia, but that's only part of who she is; the other part is a a wonderful friend...even if she doesn't want to be my friend. Listen, if you could help out with the challenge I need more embroidery. Take this to the fabric store and see if you can find some of this cloth."
"But I-"
/
Aiden slumped into the fabric store. "Let's see, Melissa said she needed some kind of embroidery..."
"What's with the long face sonny?"
Aiden pivoted around and nearly fell over gasping. "Is that...the President of The United States!"
To the left of the American was a crowd of buff, tall secret agents forming a circle around a concealed figure.
"Gee wilkers is that really you-"
"Call me The Prez," the figure in the circle stated. "Everyone does. I see by your shirt, you also another warm red, white and blue blooded American. What's your name?"
"Aiden," the boy managed to spit out. "Its just an honor to meet you."
"The honor is all mine," the president replied. "Now like I asked Aiden, what's wrong?"
"Oh you don't want to hear about it," Aiden said.
"I'm concerned with the concerns of the American population," the president answered. "Now, tell me what's up?"
The circle of bodyguards opened up and pushed Aiden inside, who blushed. "Well, I'm on this reality show and my friend got voted off. I feel like its my fault."
"Could you have stopped it?" the president asked.
Aiden scratched his head. "I don't think so. I know why he went home, even though I keep telling myself there's another reason. Honestly, I just wish...wish I could have told him how grateful I was we were friends. The truth is, I didn't accept him, or my girlfriend, and I still feel like a jerk for it."
"If you accept them now, then what's the problem?" the president asked.
"My beliefs haven't changed too much," Aiden admitted. "I mean, I really care for them and I'd defend them from anybody. I mean, the beautiful thing about America is that we're based on freedom; they are who they, and they should be here, whether we agree or not."
"Amen," the president agreed.
"But I didn't treat them like that at the time," Aiden said. "I don't know if I can ever make it up to Hayden, especially now that he's gone."
"The way I see it you can't change the past," the president stated. "But you can change what's happening right now, and that can change the future. As president, America's future is my biggest concern. So what I do what I can when I'm in the office to create a great future for America."
Aiden wiped away a tear. "That's beautiful. But what should I do?"
"If you continue to care for your friends then they'll know you accept them," the president said.
"Golly you're right," Aiden stated. "Except I haven't been there for Melissa. But I need to know! First I have to get that cloth."
"I'll pay for it," the president stated. "Take it and help your friend."
"Thank you so much," Aiden stated, running from the circle with the embroidery. "And um...can I ask you one question?"
The president laughed. "Of course. What's up?"
Aiden blushed. "Um, why are you not wearing any clothes?"
"I'm expressing my freedom as a citizen of America!" the president replied. "And I really just like shopping naked. Now go Aiden, go!"
Aiden nodded and ran off.
/
The scene cut back to the hotel, where Aiden was visiting...
"Cynthia," Aiden called.
Inside the dressing room, the pale girl was modeling a sleek, black dress. It was simple in design, but very formal.
"Listen I know we've had our issues," Aiden stated. "And you haunt me in my nightmares. But Melissa cares about you, and I believe you care about Melissa."
"Of course I do," Cynthia replied.
"Well for some reason, she thinks you don't," Aiden replied. "Please, can you talk to her? I'm worried about her."
Cynthia walked out immediately.
/
Soon, Cynthia found her way to Melissa's dressing room and threw open the door. Melissa was trying on her wedding dress.
"Oh hello Cynthia," Melissa greeted. "You look beautiful."
"You too," Cynthia said. "Aiden just spoke with me."
"What did he say?" Melissa asked.
"He told me something was wrong," Cynthia stated. "Between us."
Melissa turned away. "Its nothing. I don't want to bother you. I know you still probably need to-"
"-I can't help if I don't know what's wrong," Cynthia answered.
Melissa looked down. "I know we're different Cynthia, and that you like being alone. You don't have to be friend if you want to."
Cynthia walked up next to Melissa. "Its true, I don't mind being alone. I'm fine by myself. But, I also like being your friend."
Melissa gasped. "Really?"
"Obviously," Cynthia replied. "You're extremely kind and thoughtful. And you also don't question my knives or chainsaw."
"There one of the things I love about you," Melissa cheered, throwing her arms around her friend.
"Where did you even get this idea?" Cynthia asked.
"Well Easton was asking questions and I-"
"-Easton's an idiot," Cynthia stated.
"And every time I tried to hang out with you, you were with Weston," Melissa explained. "I guess I thought maybe he was your new friend."
"He's not," Cynthia stated. "You're my best friend."
Melissa let out a squee and glomped Cynthia again. "You're mine! But then, why are you and Weston always hanging out? And he's always whispering to you, and looking at you, and you're always eating together, and he thinks you look pretty in this dress and..."
Melissa froze and blinked. "Oh...oh! Cynthia, you and Weston?"
"Yes," Cynthia admitted. "We're dating."
"Oh my goodness that's adorable!" Melissa cheered. "You two look so cute together! Ooh, we should all double date! Do you prefer to be called Ceston or Wnythia?"
"We're keeping it a secret," Cynthia explained. "Both from that idiot Easton, and after what happened with Xidorn."
Melissa nodded. "I understand completely. I promise not to tell anyone."
"Attention everyone!" Rhonda's voice over the P.A. announced. "Our mystery celebrity judges have arrived! Its time to make it work!"
/
As the models waited backstage, the newcomers took their seats in the audience.
"Its my pleasure to announce the celebrity guests who will judge this challenge!" Rhonda announced. "Presenting the dynamic duo of...Chip McCazmerick & Flutina Weathers!"
Strutting out on stage were two strangers, a man and a woman. The man had chocolate brown hair seems to defy the laws of physics, with sparkly eyes the color of the sky when the sky is inexplicably green. Beside him, a woman whose luscious mane of bubblegum pink hair made the boldest of statements, wearing a tight white dress that certainly did favors for her bust.
"Its a pleasure to be here future fashionistas," Chip greeted. "Me and Flutina are excited-"
"-to see what you've designed today!" Flutina exclaimed. "Molting Eagles, show us what you got!"
Generic pop music, likely royalty free, begin playing as Kalino strutted out.
Rhonda smirked and watched the fashion show from the side. A ding went off, as the elevator arrived on the floor and dropped off the co-hosts.
"Excuse me?" Jenny shouted, marching over to Rhonda while wearing a large sunhat. "I thought me and Toby were going to be the judges! We even wore oversized hats for it!"
Toby slugged behind, wearing a rather tall top hat, with Elaine perched on top.
"Change of plans," Rhonda answered. "I got celebrity cameos."
Jenny stomped her feet. "That's not fair. The readers want more of me, and they need to get it!"
Toby rolled his eyes. "Yes, lets give more scenes focused on all you do, like binge watching and eating all my snacks."
"YOUR MOM!" Jenny shouted.
"Where did you find these cameos?" Toby asked.
"I knew them from something prior," Rhonda replied. "Our home company is involved in one of their projects, so I gave them a call and asked for a favor."
"When did you previously know them?" Toby questioned.
"A project from before we met," Rhonda stated. "Let's leave it at that."
On the runway, Melissa took her final lap. She winked and blew a kiss towards Aiden, who blushed, but winked back and pretended to catch the kiss, putting it in his pocket.
"And now, the Fireworks!" Chip and Fluntia announced.
Ignacio came strutting out in the squirrel fur speedo, almost a completely different person from his smile to the way he walked. The judges blushed as Ignacio gave them a wink...
...however, at that moment the hems in the speedo burst out. The entire thing fell down, leaving Ignacio completely exposed on the stage. The model froze as others gave cheers and whistles.
"Oh my," Flutina stated, "I thought we were at a fashion show Chip."
"More like a peep show, huh Flutina?" Chip replied. "Going all-natural is so 2008."
"Oh no," Ness whimpered. "I sewed that outfit."
"In hindsight we should have seen this coming," Seraphina realized. "I mean, we were kind of just tempting the world to strip Ignacio."
"You mean we didn't plan for this?" Griswold asked. "I thought that's why you suggested him for the speedo."
"This wasn't suppose to happen," Ness sighed, hitting herself in the head over and over again. "Its all my fault!"
Ignacio covered himself and ran backwards, right into Lita's bust.
"Girl down!" Lita screamed as she tripped in her clogs, "Girl down!"
She fell over, her cheese fries spilling all over the stage and slipping up Pascal. The two male models fell on top Lita, pulling the curtain down on top of them. Chip and Flutina shook their heads in unison.
/
A little bit later, the models got changed. Ignacio burying his face in his hoodie. Rhonda stood to the side as Chip and Flutina overlooked the newcomers.
"Share with us your thoughts Chip and Flutina," Rhonda stated.
"Well its obvious one team could model," Chip stated.
"And one team could not," Flutina added.
"Fireworks your show went up in smoke," Chip said. "Wouldn't you agree Flutina?"
Flutina nodded. "As nice as the show was, I came for the clothes. If that stunt proved anything, its that outfit was not made properly. How can anyone wear your clothes if they fall apart?"
"The models were just unprofessional," Chip added. "Though I do appreciate the practically of your bra."
"It's always good to have a Victoria's Secret compartment," Flutina agreed. "But overall, Chip and I agree the winners are clearly…"
"...The Fizzled Fireworks!" the duo announced as they struck a pose.
"Wait what?" Griswold asked.
Riley fistpumped. "Aww yeah!"
"How did those pig lickers win when they were such a disaster?" Vance asked.
"This was a fashion challenge designers," Chip explained. "The Fireworks outfits are fashion that's out of this world!"
"Really?" Vance asked.
"Really?" Seraphina questioned.
"Really?" even Rhonda asked.
"Really!" the two fashionistas announced.
"It's so unique and original," Flutina exclaimed. "Its nothing like I've seen on any human being before."
"Its as if a Fashion Picasso designed it," Chip continued. "Revolutionary!"
"Aww stop," Riley replied. "I just thought, 'what would I wear?'"
"Sorry Eagles," Chip stated. "But your outfits were seen it, done it, threw it in the fireplace and watched it burn last season."
"I think I actually burned a dress just like that last year at my annual bonfire," Flutina admitted. "The fashion industry is one that's constantly evolving, changing. There's no time for outdated outfits."
"You heard the judges," Rhonda stated. "Congrats Fizzled Fireworks!"
The Fireworks clapped as Riley took a bow.
"As a prize, you each win a twenty dollar shopping spree at the Tyson's Corner Center!" Rhonda announced. While Eagles, you win an all expense paid trip to the Haunted Internet Cafe."
"Cool, we won a prize!" Weston cheered.
Why do I have a suspicion that our prize was meant for the last episode and Rhonda just forgot to give it to us then?" Seraphina asked.
"That was wonderful fun Chip," Flutina sighed. "You know I was thinking we should-"
"-host our own fashion themed reality show?" Chip finished.
The two clapped in unison.
That night, the Eagles arrived at the Haunted Internet Cafe.
"Geez Eagles, you guys are getting pretty small," Rhonda stated. "You're about to get a whole lot smaller when you vote off one of your own tonight. One of you will not receive a refreshing lemon lime coffee-"
"-Ew," Weston interrupted. "Have you guys run out of good flavors?"
"All the coffee tastes like crap here kid," Toby stated.
"Is that because we're in a scary hotel?" Weston said. "You know, to match the theme."
"Its because I don't care enough about any of you to learn how to make coffee," Toby replied.
"Ahem," Rhonda coughed. "If I may continue, I have six cups of coffee and there are seven of you. The first cup of coffee goes to... Cynthia and Kalino."
The two caught their cups without saying a word.
"Weston, Xidorn."
The twin sniffed his cup and coughed violently.
"And...Vance."
The rodeo star raised his hand to catch it but was too slow. He put it back down quickly and turned away, as if nothing happened.
"Which leaves us with two…"
Melissa gasped and turned to match a confused Aiden. "What? But why?"
"I don't know," Aiden replied, wiping away a tear.
The two grabbed the other's hand.
"And the last cup of coffee goes to…
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
"...Melissa. Aiden, the Revolving Doors of Shame are that way."
Melissa and Aiden stood up and embraced.
"What happened?" Cynthia asked.
Kalino sipped his coffee.
"I've felt awful ever since Frannie left," Kalino admitted. "I admit it's my fault and part of me regrets it. But I realize I have to do whatever's best for me, to win the money. If i win, I plan on honoring my deal to Frannie, even if she still hates me. Even if she always hates me. And I wish she were here. But I can't change the past and, as awful as it is to admit, maybe it's for the best."
Kalino took another sip. "I heard Aiden was trying to find out more about our alliance and those rumors, so it was best we got rid of him. Sorry pal…"
"I'm sorry Melissa," Aiden said, "I wanted to be with you till the end. I'm glad it's me over you though."
"Don't say that," Melissa cried. "I don't want you to go…"
Aiden kissed her cheek. "Don't going acting like I did, all sad and pouty. I'll see you again, we do both live in Washington, right?"
Melissa half smiled. "I guess that's true. Aiden, I know we've been through this and that but….that doesn't matter; you're wonderful."
Aiden wiped away his tears. "You're a one of kind girl Melissa; I'm so glad I got to meet you. I know you can do anything; you can win this show! I'll be rooting for you."
The two kissed one last time. Aiden marched to the Revolving Doors of Shame and saluted the Eagles before leaving.
Author's Note
A few things to talk about with this chapter.
Remember that note about the President last chapter? Apply that to this chapter too. It's extremely weird seeing the news and then reading this chapter.
For anyone curious, Chip and Flutina are actually the hosts of a TD inspired fanfic hosted on the Total Drama Fanfiction Wiki. It was a fashion competition, similar to how the Ridonculous Race is Total Drama's version of the Amazing Race. It's likely never going to be finished though. The author joked our fics should crossover because they both take place at a hotel, his fic centering at the actual Hotel De Couture. I was doing a fashion challenge and thought it'd be a fun to have them cameo.
The challenge was fun, if a little short. If I was writing now, it'd probably be more in-depth or detailed. I hope the results made you laugh a little.
Onto to the elimination. It's sad to see Aiden go, especially since he originally had a bigger role during early planning stages. Things change, new characters were created and new storylines thought of though. He was a little more expendable. He had his moments. I wasn't very high on him and Hayden's friendship originally, but I really like it after re-reading these chapters. Part of the reason Genesis takes place in Washington, D.C. was because of his and Melissa's backstory.
I've been debating about trying to post more than one chapter every weekend. If you're reading and open to it, let me know. Right now though it's awesome because, we've made double digits! We're about a third of the way through Genesis. I think now we're at the part where I really like a lot of what's coming. I know I'm particularly excited for next chapter...
Appendix: Elimination History
Bethany (Eagles)- 22nd
Diamonique (Eagles)- 21st
Casper (Fireworks)- 20th
Tessa (Fireworks)- 19th
Zipporah (Fireworks)- 18th
Hayden (Eagles)- 17th
Frannie (Eagles)- 16th
Aiden (Eagles)- 15th